Rank Advancements

Boy Scouting provides a series of surmountable obstacles and steps in overcoming them through the advancement method. The Boy Scout plans his advancement and progresses at his own pace as he meets each challenge. The Boy Scout is rewarded for each achievement, which helps him gain self-confidence. The steps in the advancement system help a Boy Scout grow in self-reliance and in the ability to help others.

Scout Rank Requirements

Scout was previously a joining badge, but is now considered the first rank, and is earned by completing certain requirements. As of January 2016, the Scout badge has a gold fleur-de-lis on a tan background. The badge is awarded when the boy demonstrates a rudimentary knowledge of the Scouting ideals such as tying a square knot and knowing the Scout oath, law, motto, and slogan.

Tenderfoot Rank Requirements

Tenderfoot has a total of 15 requirements (knowledge in Camping and Outdoor Ethics, Cooking, Tools, First Aid and Nature, Hiking, Fitness, Citizenship, Leadership, and Scout Spirit) for the badge including the Scoutmaster's conference.

Second Class Rank Requirements

Second Class has a total of 12 requirements (knowledge in Camping and Outdoor Ethics, Cooking and Tools, Navigation, Nature, Aquatics, First Aid and Emergency Preparedness, Fitness, Citizenship, Personal Safety Awareness, and Scout Spirit) for the badge including the Scoutmaster's conference.

First Class Rank Requirements

First Class has a total of 13 requirements (knowledge in Camping and Outdoor Ethics, Cooking, Tools, Navigation, Nature, Aquatics, First Aid and Emergency Preparedness, Fitness, Citizenship, Leadership, and Scout Spirit) for the badge including the Scoutmaster's conference.

Life Rank Requirements

Life Rank requires active participation in the troop for at least 6 months as a Star Scout. As Star Scout, demonstrate Scout spirit, duty to God, leadership within the troop & community service. Earn five more merit badges, including three Eagle required. While a Star Scout use the Teaching EDGE method to teach another Scout (preferably younger) scout skills. While a Star Class Scout, participate in a Scoutmaster conference and successfully complete your board of review for the Life rank.

Eagle Rank Requirements

Eagle Rank require active participation in the troop for at least 6 months as a Life Scout. As Life Scout, demonstrate Scout Oath & Law in daily life and include references. Earn 21 merit badges including 13 required ones. Provide leadership within the troop. Plan, develop, & give leadership to your Eagle Scout project. While a Life Scout, participate in a unit leader conference and successfully complete an Eagle Scout board of review.